Sam Mitchell has hinted that ruckman Nic Naitanui is on track to play in West Coast's round one blockbuster against Sydney, however Mitchell suggests that he still has some hurdles to overcome in his comeback preparation.
"At the moment, he's aimed for round one, but he hasn't got into the competitive stuff yet," Mitchell told .
"The risk of putting him into competitive work at any point is there, so whenever we do that it needs to be at the right time and with as little amount of risk as possible.
"(Medical staff) say he's on track for that (round one) but what he has to do between now and then, there's still some hurdles to jump over."
Naitanui who joined the main group on Monday, was still held out of the main match simulation drills at training, as Adam Simpson stills remaining very cautious with their star player.
In a session that was open to the media, Naitanui didn't show off his leaping abilities but did take part in midfield scrimmage work.
After spending 18 months out of the game with an ACL injury, the Eagles hope that Nic Nat will feature in the club's final JLT Community Series clash against Fremantle on March 11, however it may be delayed until the round one encounter with the Swans.
"His best is still going to be absolutely outstanding," Mitchell said.
"How often we see it and how soon we can see it only time will tell, but his diligence to his program … I don't think he's going to get anywhere and say 'gee, I could've done more'."
Mitchell also gave an update surrounding the likes of Luke Shuey (hip), Andrew Gaff (foot/ankle) or Josh Kennedy (ankle), suggesting that they'll be ready to go.
Club best and fairest winner Elliot Yeo is also back in full stride after tweaking an ankle at training last week.
Mitchell also suggested that he once regretted retiring last season, but he is excited about the up and coming youngsters and leaders that are coming of age this preseason.
"There's so many young guys trying to jump up into that realm and take those spots," he said.
"The vibrancy that we get out of every session has been outstanding.
"Onwards and upwards and I think there's going to be some good things coming out of the side in the early part of the year.
"Luke Shuey, Jack Redden and Andrew Gaff, these guys are all strong leaders of our footy club, and I think they can help share the load."
